Gatti Blog

Last month, as with every October, we celebrated American Pharmacists Month, which is a great reminder to have a medication review with one of our pharmacists. A medication review, or "check-up," can reduce your risk of drug interactions and side effects and help determine if you're taking anything that is unnecessary. Another major benefit of a medication check is that a pharmacist can help to determine if there are less expensive medications to treat your health concerns. As the medication experts, pharmacists are trained to carefully and thoroughly evaluate your medication-related issues. Then, we act as members of the healthcare team by communication with our other providers (and you!) to solve your problems.

When preparing for a review, first call your pharmacy and inquire if they provide medication checks. Because of the time required to offer a careful review, not all pharmacies are able to offer the service, and many that do may require an appointment. You'll want to ensure the pharmacy has a quiet, private area where you can talk with the pharmacist confidentially. Charges for the service may also vary, so be sure to inquire. Once you've found a pharmacist that can provide the review, gather all of your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and any vitamins and dietary supplements you take. Medication lists, if available, as well as pillboxes and organizers, can be useful for the pharmacist also. Then, prepare to discuss your medications with the pharmacist.

Some of the things that a comprehensive medication review should include are the following:

What is this medication for?

While this seems like a simple question, your answer to this will help the pharmacist determine if you're on medications for diseases you have and whether or not they are appropriate and necessary

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects from medications are a common complaint as well as a frequent reason for visits to the emergency department. Discussing this with a pharmacist, along with talking about the side effects you're having and ways to manage or prevent them, are what the pharmacist will do during the check.

Will this medication interact with other prescriptions or OTC's or foods?

Like side effects, drug interactions are a common reason for trips to the emergency department. If you're using multiple pharmacies for your medication needs, the chances of dangerous drug interactions increase. Add to that the supplements and over-the-counter medications you're taking, and this review has the potential to identify and prevent dangerous drug interactions.

Is this similar to something else I'm already taking?

Pharmacists are well-versed in identifying a duplication in therapy.

Do I still need to take this medication?

This can be a common area of confusion and one that the pharmacist can help you sort out.

Is there a non-drug alternative that works better or just as well?

There are many instances where non-drug treatments can work just as well or even better than medications. The pharmacist can discuss this during the review.

Is there a less expensive alternative to this that works better or just as well?

Because of pharmacists unique access to the price(s) of medications, we are well positioned to identify therapies that may be less expensive. The answers to this question can often offset any cost for the review and can create savings well in to the future for you.

Because of our mission to keep patients healthy, this is a service we do offer. If you're wondering what we might identify about your medications, schedule your medication check-up with us today. It just might save your life.

Author

Stephanie Smith Cooney is the owner and president of Gatti Pharmacy. She believes in making patient care a top priority and creating a work environment that is both positive and inspiring. Learn more about her here.